Many folks are spending a lot more time at home these days. It’s a great time to consider ways you can save money and reduce your energy usage. From using ceiling fans to switching out light bulbs, all of us can benefit from these money-saving tips:

  1. Use the stovetop or microwave to heat leftovers. Use the oven only for big items.
  2. Fill your dishwasher and washing machines completely before turning them on.
  3. Turn on ceiling fans before turning up the AC. They use less energy and can bring the temperature down, which may be just enough.
  4. Clean the refrigerator coils to improve efficiency.
  5. Remove dryer lint before every load to improve efficiency and prevent fires.
  6. Set your water heater to 120° or less.
  7. Change the filter in your HVAC system every 3 months to improve efficiency.
  8. Make sure all lighting fixtures use LED bulbs, not incandescent.
  9. Reduce “phantom loads” by unplugging devices you aren’t using. All plugged-in devices consume energy, even when they are off.
  10. Turn off the tap while you brush your teeth. Leaving the tap running while you brush your teeth can waste up to 4 gallons of water.